Titan Talks

Titan Talks

By Topline ProBusinessEntrepreneurship
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Titan Talks episodes

  • S2 E4: Steven Wagoner - Bearforce Lawn Care: A Family's Journey from Bears to Business

    In this episode of Titan Talks, host Sam Dushay interviews Steven Wagoner, the owner of Bearforce Lawn Care LLC in Greenfield, Indiana. Steven shares his journey in the lawn care industry, highlighting how partnering with Topline Pro has transformed his business operations, allowing him to focus more on family time and less on the burdens of social media marketing. He recounts the origin of the unique name "Bearforce," which stems from a personal encounter with a bear in the Smoky Mountains, and discusses the family-oriented nature of his business, which he runs alongside his wife. Steven also shares his aspirations for the future of Bearforce Lawn Care, emphasizing the importance of dedication and perseverance for aspiring business owners.


    Bearforce Lawn Care LLC is a family-owned and operated lawn care company based in Greenfield, Indiana. Founded by Steven Wagoner, the business is known for its personalized and professional services, catering to both residential and commercial clients. The company offers a range of services including mowing, landscaping, and snow removal, with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction. Bearforce Lawn Care is deeply rooted in family values, with Steven and his wife working closely together to ensure the business thrives, while also involving their children in the operations to instill a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility.


    (00:00) - Introduction and Welcome

    (01:30) - Discovering Topline Pro

    (03:45) - Transitioning to a New Chapter

    (06:00) - Balancing Business and Family Life

    (08:15) - The Impact of GIE Expo

    (10:30) - Securing New Clients

    (12:45) - Weather Challenges in Lawn Care

    (15:00) - Streamlining Services

    (17:15) - The Origin of Bearforce Lawn Care

    (19:30) - Running a Family Business

    (21:00) - Involving the Next Generation

    (23:00) - Long-term Goals for Bearforce

    (24:30) - Dealing with Unexpected Challenges

    (26:00) - Advice for Aspiring Business Owners

    (27:00) - Closing Remarks and Farewell

    28 min
  • S2 E3: From Corporate to Clean: John Baker's RadPad Journey

    In this episode of Titan Talks, host Sam Dushay interviews John Baker, owner of RadPad, a home services company based in San Diego. John shares his journey from corporate America to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of preparation and intentionality in launching RadPad. The discussion covers the company's focus on customer communication, reputation building, and the strategic use of technology to enhance operations. John also outlines his plans for scaling and rebranding RadPad, aiming to set new standards in the home services industry. The episode concludes with valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs considering a similar path.


    RadPad is a home services company based in San Diego, specializing in exterior and some interior maintenance for residential properties. The company offers a range of services, including window cleaning, gutter cleaning, solar panel cleaning, and turf maintenance. RadPad is committed to delivering high-quality results and exceptional customer satisfaction, with plans to expand its offerings to include exterior lighting and other trending services. By leveraging technology and focusing on customer communication, RadPad aims to redefine the home services experience and set new industry standards.


    (00:00) - Introduction to Titan Talks with Sam Dushay

    (01:15) - Meet John Baker: Owner of RadPad

    (02:30) - Overview of RadPad's Services

    (04:00) - The Impact of Exterior Lighting

    (05:30) - The Satisfaction of Transformative Results

    (07:00) - The Joy of Working Outdoors in San Diego

    (08:15) - Launching RadPad: From Planning to Execution

    (10:00) - The Decision to Start a Home Services Business

    (12:00) - Learning from Past Experiences and Competitors

    (14:00) - Building a Reputation and Customer Trust

    (16:00) - The Role of Technology in Business Growth

    (18:00) - The Importance of a Strong Online Presence

    (20:00) - Balancing On-the-Job Work and Business Management

    (22:00) - The Value of a Mastermind Group

    (24:00) - Leveraging Top Line Pro for Business Efficiency

    (26:00) - Scaling RadPad: A Calculated Approach

    (28:00) - The Importance of Hiring the Right People

    (30:00) - RadPad's Growth and Future Goals

    (32:00) - The Role of Branding in Business Success

    (34:00) - Rebranding RadPad: A Strategic Move

    (36:00) - Reflections on Leaving Corporate America

    (38:00) - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

    (39:00) - Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

    40 min
  • S2 E2: From Army to Exteriors: The Servant Leader Approach with Anthony Beyo

    In this episode of Titan Talks, host Sam Dushay interviews Anthony Beyo, owner of United Exteriors in Tampa. Anthony shares his journey from serving in the Army to starting his own construction company, driven by a commitment to customer satisfaction and quality work. He emphasizes the importance of a servant leader mentality, both in serving clients and supporting employees. The conversation highlights United Exteriors' growth strategy, focusing on referrals and high-quality craftsmanship, as well as the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. Anthony's dedication to his work and vision for the future of his company are inspiring.


    1. (00:00) - Introduction to Titan Talks

    2. (01:30) - Meet Anthony Beyo from United Exteriors

    3. (03:00) - From Army to Construction: Anthony's Journey

    4. (06:00) - The Importance of Customer Satisfaction

    5. (08:30) - The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Rent a Kid Landscaping

    6. (11:00) - United Exteriors Today: Operations and Team

    7. (14:00) - The Role of Referrals in Business Growth

    8. (16:30) - Anthony's Hands-On Leadership Style

    9. (19:00) - The Servant Leader Mentality

    10. (21:30) - Hiring and Maintaining a Skilled Workforce

    11. (24:00) - Challenges of Business Growth and Trust

    12. (27:00) - The Importance of Quality and Trust in Construction

    13. (29:30) - Handling Unforeseen Issues in Construction

    14. (32:00) - The Role of Topline Pro in United Exteriors' Growth

    15. (34:30) - Marketing Strategies and Competition

    16. (37:00) - Future Goals for United Exteriors

    17. (39:00) - Advice for Aspiring Business Owners

    18. (42:00) - Closing Thoughts and Farewell

    34 min
  • S2 E1: Chris Moore - From Craftsman to Business Owner: Insights from Elite Business Advisors

    In this episode of Titan Talks, host Sam Dushay interviews Chris Moore, the owner of Elite Business Advisors, about his journey from running a painting company to becoming a business advisor. Chris discusses the importance of bridging the gap between craftsmanship and business operations, particularly for painting contractors. He emphasizes the significance of understanding finances, implementing systems, and developing marketing strategies to help businesses grow. The conversation also touches on the value of personal connections and community impact, as well as the decision to specialize in the painting industry to build trust with clients. Chris shares insights into the challenges and rewards of helping business owners improve their operations and achieve their goals.

    45 min
  • Ep 48: Family, Faith, and Finishing: Inside Stallman Drywall & Painting

    In this episode of Titan Talks, host Sam Dushay interviews Kevin Stallman, owner of Stallman Drywall and Painting. Kevin shares his journey from learning drywall from a VHS tape to running a successful family business in Morris, Minnesota. He emphasizes the importance of family involvement, a strong work ethic, and maintaining a growth mindset. Kevin also discusses the impact of partnering with Topline Pro for marketing, which has significantly expanded their business reach. He offers advice to new business owners, stressing the importance of staying true to oneself and surrounding oneself with good people.


    1. (00:00) - Introduction to Titan Talks

    2. (01:15) - Kevin Stallman's Journey into Drywall

    3. (03:30) - The Family Behind Stallman Drywall

    4. (05:45) - Working with Your Spouse: Challenges and Rewards

    5. (08:00) - Current Business Landscape and Booking

    6. (10:15) - What Sets Stallman Drywall Apart

    7. (12:30) - The Role of Marketing and Topline Pro

    8. (14:45) - Memorable Projects and Customer Relationships

    9. (17:00) - Learning from Mistakes: A Smooth Finish Story

    10. (19:15) - Capturing and Showcasing Quality Work

    11. (21:30) - Team Dynamics and Daily Operations

    12. (23:45) - Adapting to Minnesota Winters

    13. (25:00) - Future Growth and Expansion Plans

    14. (27:15) - Advice for Aspiring Business Owners

    29 min
  • Ep 47: Pressure Washing and Business Growth with Andy Stocker

    In this episode of Titan Talks, host Sam Dushay interviews Andy Stocker, owner of Patriot Power Washing and other businesses, about his journey from law enforcement to entrepreneurship. Andy shares how he started his power washing business in Las Vegas after retiring, quickly expanding due to a significant contract on the U.S.-Mexico border wall. He discusses the importance of having a professional website, which helped grow his business, and highlights the role of technology and his wife's organizational skills in managing operations. Andy also emphasizes the value of building strong relationships with clients and employees, offering advice on hiring and maintaining a successful business.


    1. (0:00) - Introduction to Titan Talks

    2. (1:15) - Andy Stocker's Business Ventures

    3. (3:45) - Transition from Law Enforcement to Business

    4. (6:30) - The Importance of a Website

    5. (9:00) - Rapid Business Growth

    6. (12:00) - Handling Large Scale Jobs

    7. (15:00) - Technology and Business Operations

    8. (18:00) - The Role of Family in Business

    9. (21:00) - Hiring and Managing Employees

    10. (24:00) - Mentoring in the Industry

    11. (27:00) - Challenges and Regulations

    12. (30:00) - Future Goals and Community Impact

    13. (33:00) - Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

    36 min
  • Ep 46: Joe Kellems: The Art and Science of Bee Relocation

    In this episode of Titan Talks, host Sam Dushay interviews Joe Kellems, owner of Honey Bee Blues, a business specializing in honey bee removal and relocation in Pittsburgh. Joe shares his journey from a general handyman to a bee removal specialist, driven by local demand and his passion for beekeeping. He discusses the challenges and intricacies of bee removal, including unexpected obstacles like electrical wires in hives. Joe highlights the impact of media exposure on his business and stresses the importance of an open-minded entrepreneurial approach and effective partnerships for business success. The episode concludes with Joe's insights on expanding his business into bee product creation and his future aspirations.


    (00:00) - Introduction to Honey Bee Blues

    (02:00) - Overview of Honey Bee Removal Services

    (04:00) - Transition from Handyman to Beekeeping

    (06:00) - Relocating Honeybees to the Apiary

    (08:00) - Beekeeping and PTSD: A Personal Journey

    (10:00) - Business Administration and Marketing Challenges

    (12:00) - Impact of Topline Pro on Business Visibility

    (14:00) - The Power of News Stories in Business Growth

    (16:00) - Challenges in Honeybee Removal

    (18:00) - Homeowner Reactions to Hive Removals

    (20:00) - The Origin of Honey Bee Blues Name and Logo

    (22:00) - Exploring Bee Products and Future Business Plans

    (24:00) - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

    (26:00) - Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

    29 min
  • Ep. 45: Noah Leach - From Marketing to Moss Removal

    In this episode of Titan Talks, host Sam Dushay interviews Noah Leach, owner of Swift Serve, about his journey from digital marketing to running a successful home services business. Noah shares how he leveraged his marketing skills to grow Swift Serve, starting with roof and gutter cleaning and expanding to include various other services. He emphasizes the importance of networking and community support in his business growth, as well as the role of technology in scaling operations. Noah also discusses his future plans for Swift Serve, focusing on automation and hiring to further expand the business.


    - (0:00) - Introduction to Titan Talks

    - (1:15) - Noah Leach's Unique Career Transition

    - (4:30) - The Power of TikTok in Business Inspiration

    - (7:45) - Expanding Swift Serve's Service Offerings

    - (11:00) - The Impact of Networking and Community

    - (15:00) - The Role of Technology in Business Growth

    - (18:30) - Marketing Strategies for Home Services

    - (22:00) - Future Plans for Swift Serve

    - (25:30) - The Importance of Customer Relationships

    - (28:00) - Life in Coeur d'Alene

    - (30:00) - Rapid Fire Questions with Noah Leach

    - (32:00) - Closing Thoughts and Farewell

    34 min
  • Ep 44: Kevin Anstaett - Climbing to Success

    In this episode of Titan Talks, Sam Dushay interviews Kevin Anstaett, owner of Anstaett's Tree Service, about his unconventional path into the tree service industry. Kevin shares how he overcame his fear of heights and became a self-taught expert, emphasizing the importance of prompt customer service and leveraging technology to streamline operations. He discusses his business philosophy of maintaining a small, efficient team and investing in reliable equipment to ensure continuous service. Kevin also highlights the significance of word-of-mouth and repeat business in sustaining growth and success.


    (0:00) - Intro and Origin Story

    (6:30) - Overcoming Fear of Heights

    (10:00) - Building a Tree Service Business

    (14:00) - Importance of Prompt Customer Service

    (18:30) - Technology's Role in Business Operations

    (22:00) - Maintaining a Small, Efficient Team

    (26:00) - Marketing and Word-of-Mouth Success

    (30:00) - Investing in Reliable Equipment

    (34:00) - Future Plans and Business Philosophy

    (37:00) - Closing Remarks

    38 min
  • Ep 43: Building Community: The Story of All About You Handyman Services

    Tasha, the owner of All About You Handyman Services Inc., shares her unique journey from being a retired wildland firefighter to running a successful general contracting company. Initially starting as a small handyman service aimed at helping low-income and elderly community members, the business has grown significantly over five years, now employing multiple full-time staff and preparing to launch a sister restoration company. Tasha highlights the importance of effective communication, time management, and leveraging social media and technology, particularly through Topline Pro, to streamline operations and marketing. She also emphasizes the value of building strong community relationships and advises homeowners to thoroughly vet contractors to ensure they are licensed and insured.


    (00:00) - Introduction

    (00:30) - Tasha's Origin Story

    (02:00) - Transition to Full-Time Business

    (03:00) - Community Involvement

    (04:00) - Lessons Learned

    (05:30) - Hiring First Employee

    (06:30) - Current Business Status

    (07:00) - Booking Schedule

    (07:30) - Marketing and Word of Mouth

    (08:00) - Evolution of Social Media and Technology

    (10:00) - Impact of Topline Pro

    (11:30) - Importance of Marketing

    (12:30) - Communication Tools

    (13:30) - Unique Aspects of Montana Business

    (14:30) - Advice for Small Business Owners

    (15:00) - Importance of Communication

    (16:00) - Advice for Homeowners

    (17:00) - Ensuring Reviews

    (17:30) - Rapid Fire: Business Goals

    (18:00) - Rapid Fire: Biggest Mistake

    (18:30) - Rapid Fire: Most Surprising Thing

    (19:00) - Rapid Fire: Horror Story

    (19:30) - Rapid Fire: Memorable Job

    (20:30) - Conclusion and Thanks

    23 min

About Titan Talks

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to Titan Talks, a weekly podcast featuring titans of the home service industry. Each week, Sam Dushay sits down with experts from the trades — from painters to plumbers and everything in between — for a 30-minute conversation about their origin stories and the growth of their business. Get ready to be inspired!